10 Most Stunning Beaches in the Philippines

Summer in the Philippines can be all-year round with the archipelago’s numerous beach destinations offering. From powdery-white sands to stunning rock formations, the Philippines has what it takes to be named as the country to fill your wanderlust this year.

We list down the ten of the best beaches in the Philippines for you to choose from for your next getaway:

1. El Nido, Palawan

El Nido features numerous stunning limestones which rest at powdery-white sands. Its pristine beaches have been heralded as one of the country’s best. Dubbed as Conde Nast Traveller’s number 1 island for travelers, El Nido offers various tours of its major islands that will leave you mesmerized.

Aside from El Nido, Palawan also has Coron, located at the northern part of the province. Some of its sparkling white sand beaches are Banol, Atuayan, Malcapuya, and Banana, which also features a number of hidden lakes and wreck dive sites to choose from. One of the mostly known lakes in the place is Barracuda Lake, which stuns tourists with its exciting cliff dive into its clear waters.

People would often say that Boracay has you covered when it comes to a fun-filled summer adventure. It boasts of its pristine aquamarine beaches as well as bars and clubs perfect for chilling out with your friends with good music and good food. Adventure-seekers will not get tired and weary over its thrilling rides such as snorkeling, cliff jumps, banana boat rides, parasailing and more.

A ferry ride from the island of Cebu, Bantayan Island gives you a dose of its rich culture and tradition with its old church and thriving fishing industry, as well as a stunning sunset. It also has five islets that are embraced with fine white sands and stunning coral formations when one opts to go snorkeling.

*One needs to catch a bus ride going to Hagnaya port from the city proper. It takes a 1 hour ferry ride from the port to Santa Fe, Bantayan Island.

Caramoan Islands, situated at the southern part of Camarines Sur in Bicol region, is said to be the Philippine’s Secret paradise. It is composed of 12 islands and a number of islets, which gives unlimited adventure such as scuba diving, kayaking, stand-up paddle, cliff jumping, bouldering and trekking.

Calaguas is said to be the next “Boracay” in the country. While it does not have posh resorts and clubs, it maintains it virgin island feel, even as tourists need to pitch tents for an overnight stay. If you’re tired of the usual fanfare for beaches, make Calaguas your next beach destination.

Where to stay:Waling-Waling Eco-Village Resort in Calaguas Islands, Camarines Norte

7. Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte

Saud Beach in Pagudpud captivates your eyes with its fine white sand and coconut trees that shade the beach, along with a stunning sunset. The sight of the Northwind Power Windmills in Bangui, Ilocos Norte is a welcome addition; a must-see for anyone headed to Ilocos Norte.

Called by many as the “Garden of Eden,” Camaguin Island is described as a tranquil and unspoiled place with about 20 volcanoes. Located off the northern coast of Mindanao, it’s easy to get to via Cagayan De Oro airport. Tourists can enjoy volcano climbing, trekking, rappelling and even frolicking on some beaches with brown sands. Diving is also another thing you can enjoy in Camiguin.

Puerto Galera, located in Oriental Mindoro, is a scenery of lush green mountains encompassed by aquamarine clear waters. A few hours’ drive from Manila and a ferry ride from the port will give you a relaxing feel while getting close to nature. Watching the sunset, star gazing, and just relaxing by the seaside will definitely sooth your mind and body. It’s also home to several bars and clubs that are perfect for those looking for a night out in town without leaving the beach.

Anawangin Cove in Zambales was born after Mt. Pinatubo erupted a couple of decades ago. Its sheer beauty is made of pine tree forest, rocky beach and grayish white sands. It gives a full view of mountains in Zambales, as well as being a jump off point to nearby Capones Island.